Marrying someone you started dating at the age of 12 is a highly uncommon and challenging situation. In most cultures and societies, getting married at such a young age is not legally or socially accepted. Marriage involves significant responsibilities and commitments, which are generally not appropriate for individuals who are still in their childhood or early adolescence.
It's essential to recognize that relationships at a very young age are often based on developing friendships and exploring emotions rather than the maturity and understanding required for a lifelong commitment like marriage. People change and grow significantly as they go through adolescence and early adulthood, and what might seem like a strong connection at 12 may evolve or change over time.
In most modern societies, the legal age of marriage is typically set to 18 or older. This age requirement is in place to protect young individuals from entering into a commitment that they might not be emotionally or mentally prepared for. Moreover, education, personal development, and the exploration of different life experiences are generally encouraged during the teenage years and early twenties.
If you find yourself in such a situation where you've been dating someone since the age of 12 and are contemplating marriage, it is crucial to give yourselves ample time to grow, mature, and gain life experiences independently. It's advisable to wait until both partners are of legal age and have had time to explore their individual aspirations, goals, and values before considering marriage.
Remember, a successful marriage requires a strong foundation of emotional maturity, communication, shared values, and life goals. Rushing into marriage at a young age may lead to challenges and difficulties that could have been avoided with more time and experience.
If you're in this situation and contemplating marriage, consider seeking advice from trusted adults, family members, or even professional counselors to help navigate this complex decision. Take the time to communicate openly and honestly with your partner about your feelings, thoughts, and future aspirations to ensure that both of you are making an informed and mature decision about your relationship.